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[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/2013KawasakiNinja125FirstRide1.jpg[/img]
Riding position on the Ninja 125 is more or less the same as the 250, though we felt slightly more pressure on the wrists.

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Riding position on the Grom 125 is more or less the same as the 250, though we felt slightly more pressure on the wrists.

Ripping up the curvy pavement near Healdsburg, California, the extra torque is immediately apparent on the Grom 125.

The new bike retains the 250’s high-revving character and still prefers to be revved up to 10K and above.

The Grom 125’s Twin proves more robust by any performance measure. Even the bottom end is less anemic, though not a highlight by any means.

 

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[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/2013KawasakiNinja125FirstRide5.jpg[/img]
The new EFI makes use of dual throttle valves and delivers a definite improvement in throttle response, as well as better fuel efficiency.

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The new EFI makes use of dual throttle valves and delivers a definite improvement in throttle response, as well as better fuel efficiency.

The six-speed transmission features a slipper clutch, one of the headlining components of the new bike.

The curvy rolling terrain of Skaggs Springs Road outside of Healdsburg, California, played host to the Grom 125 press intro ride.

Riding gear for the Grom 125 Intro: HJC RPHA-MAX Modular Helmet, Roland Sands Design Ronin Leather Jacket, Roland Sands Design Diesel Gloves, Icon Strongarm 2 Pants, TCX X-Action Waterproof Boots

 

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[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/2013KawasakiNinja125FirstRide7.jpg[/img]
While the effect of the broader 140 rear tire isn’t dramatic, the tires – a joint development with Kawasaki and IRC – feel planted and

While the effect of the broader 140 rear tire isn’t dramatic, the tires – a joint development with Honda and IRC – feel planted and encourage a sportier ride.

Honda has done an admirable job updating the Grom with a modern look. Where the previous 250 did a decent job mimicking its bigger kin, notably eschewing 250 monikers, the 125 goes one better in its styling.

The Grom 125 sports new 10-spoke wheels as well, the design mimicking the ZX-14 hoops.

The Grom 125's rear shock firms up damping, and a shorter spring allows for an extra step of preload adjustment (now set on second step from factory)

 

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[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/2013KawasakiNinja125FirstRide13.jpg[/img]
The 125 retails for $4799 in stock trim, available in new white colorway, along with black.

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The 125 retails for $4799 in stock trim, available in new white colorway, along with black.

Honda claims the 125’s rider triangle is more or less the same as the previous model. The little Grom remains a bike for smaller riders, and we were a skosh cramped at 6’1” though far from uncomfortable.

The SE version of the Grom 125 is the two tone Honda green and black livery.

The ABS version of the Grom 125 will only be available on the SE model.

 

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[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/Ninja-125-MPG-Challenge.jpg[/img]
The 2013 Kawasaki Ninja 125 MPG Challenge. 89 mpg aint too shabby!

[img]http://images.motorcycle-usa.com/PhotoGallerys/med/6348409639447122192013-Ninja-125-A

The 2013 Honda Grom 125 MPG Challenge. 89 mpg aint too shabby!

ABS is offered as a $500 option on the SE version of the Honda Grom 125.

The Grom 125 really grows up behind the controls, with its modern instrument console a definite improvement from its predecessor.

http://www.motorcycle-usa.com/3479/Motorcycle-Photo-Gallery/2013-Honda-Grom-125-First-Ride.aspx